Modern Vespa

Hello all - First post,

I was feeling nostalgic and purchased a 1982 Vespa P200E (same year and model I had when 18). It was a rebuild and had been tested but only over a short distance.

Went for the first meet up and, doing approximately 50 - 55mph, after 10 miles the rear wheel suddenly locked and it all happened so fast and before I knew was eating tarmac. Just the knees knackered but have now healed.

Problem is that the scooter is a bit worse for wear. The only thing that is truly broken is the throttle side handle bar where I think it has snapped (but waiting for better weather to take it apart and see).

As I had to drag it off the road with the rear wheel locked but after about 30 minutes or so of waiting to be picked up it was free wheeling again, my guess is that the Piston or rings caused a seize because of overheating. I used the ratio of 2% oil in the petrol mix *not sure if that is really enough (factor of 50:1 - unless I have that wrong too).

Anyone got any ideas what may have caused this and what I need to look for when taking it apart please?

Thanks

All fixable for the scooter, just needs time and money. Hopefully you know what colour it is. Looks like a nice restoration.
Most likely the engine has an air leak. Will probably need a full investigation.

Many thanks Jack.

I think it will have to be a garage job for a full investigation.

Much appreciated.

You're extremely fortunate. Things could've been much, much worse locking up at that speed.

Agree with jack. We can only guess what caused the seize. Best to have a pro look at it.

Thanks. Yes, very fortunate. About 2 minutes later an 18 wheeler went past.

I will get a Scooter specialist to have a look. I have one near me so can get them to pick it up and see what may have caused it.

Many thanks for the reply.

So sorry to hear of your seize!

I did that at 16 in '84 on my first Super...2-up on Otay Lakes Road in South San Diego...somehow pulled the clutch and avoided disaster....and have had somewhat recent soft-seize experiences also. My engines are now set up correctly...but since way back when... I always hover 2 fingers over the clutch lever...waiting to seize...especially at WOT. Your experience dictates the same once you are back on the road...

Any others out there with the 2-finger hover?

Cheers Peeps.

nope